How much does it cost to replace a pressure relief valve on a hot water heater?

Author: Salma Gerlach  |  Last update: Monday, February 9, 2026

Replacing a pressure relief valve can cost on average between $200 and $300 if hiring a professional, A homeowner can replace their own pressure relief valve with a bit of plumbing experience and a couple of basic tools, and the part alone costs $20.

How much does it cost to replace a water heater pressure relief valve?

The required type of PRVs can cost anywhere from $90-$200 and can be purchased at a big box store. A plumber will charge anywhere from $200-$800 for materials and labor but a homeowner with a moderate level of maintenance knowledge might be able to switch out their PRV.

How much does a plumber charge to replace a pressure reducing valve?

For a standard PRV replacement, expect to pay around $400 to $800. This includes the new valve, plumber fees, permit charges, and any additional materials or labor.

How long does it take to replace a pressure relief valve?

It doesn't take very long to install a pressure reducing valve. In fact, it's usually the digging that takes the longest. They should be able to be in and out in an hour max.

How do I know if my water heater pressure relief valve is bad?

3 Signs Of Pressure Relief Valve Failure
  1. System Cannot Reach Pressure. If your system isn't reaching pressure, this could be a sign of pressure relief valve failure. ...
  2. System is Over Maximum Pressure. ...
  3. Pressure Relief Valve is Leaking or Has No Pressure.

How To LOWER Your Water Pressure (COMPLETE GUIDE) | GOT2LEARN

What is the life expectancy of a pressure relief valve?

Depending on their service and application. The service and application a valve is used for affects its longevity. A valve used for clean service, such as steam, can last a long time — easily 20 years if it isn't operated too close to the set point and gets the right preventative maintenance program.

How often should you replace water heater pressure relief valve?

Homeowners should replace the pressure-relief valve every few years, or as recommended by the manufacturer, as a preventive measure. The frequency of replacement may need to be increased if the water heater operates under harsh conditions or the water supply is particularly hard or corrosive.

How much does it cost to repair a relief valve?

Pressure Relief Valve – $20 to $200

If you notice that the valve is consistently leaking, it may mean that the tank's pressure is too high, or you might simply have a faulty/clogged valve. The cost of a new pressure relief valve is about $20, and repairs may total to $200.

Do you have to drain hot water tank to replace pressure relief valve?

If you have a top mount configuration, you only need to drain a little bit. For side mounts, you probably need to drain about 10 gallons. You might take this opportunity to flush the water heater entirely, removing minerals and sediment in the tank.

What causes a pressure relief valve to fail?

The system is over maximum pressure

Contaminants like dirt, dust, and corrosion can cause the valve to remain stuck. Replace the pressure relief valve if the excessive buildup cannot be cleaned.

How much will a plumber charge to change a valve?

The last thing that affects shut-off valve replacement costs is where you want to install the new valve and how easy it will be to reach there. The average cost to replace a water shut-off valve is between $375 and $600.

What happens when a pressure reducing valve fails?

A pressure reducing valve (PRV) is an important part of your plumbing system, as it helps regulate the water pressure in your home. If a PRV fails and the pressure in your pipes gets too high, it can cause all kinds of problems, from plumbing fixtures failing to appliances leaking and more.

How much does it cost to fit a pressure reducing valve?

Typical costs to fix high water pressure are £150 to £450, dependent on the specific repairs needed. For example, installing a pressure-reducing valve might cost between £150 and £250, including labour and materials.

How much is labor to replace a water heater?

In general, plumbers cost $45 to $200 per hour, while electricians cost $50 to $100 per hour. Expect the following average price ranges for labor alone: Replacing a tank-style water heater: $150–$450. Replacing a tankless water heater: $600–$1,850.

Can a pressure relief valve be replaced?

PRV Usage. The amount the PRV is used also contributes to how much wear and tear it undergoes. The rule of thumb is to replace a PRV after each discharge. However, high-use PRVs may require more frequent replacements than that.

Do you really need a pressure relief valve?

A pressure relief valve can protect your pump and internal plumbing from extreme water hammer. If there is a sudden surge of pressure, your relief valve will do its job and keep that excess pressure from moving to your truck's internal plumbing.

How do I fix a leaking pressure relief valve?

Common Fix For a Leaking Temperature Pressure Relief Valve
  1. Turn off the water heater breaker.
  2. Shut off your water.
  3. Empty the water heater by draining the bottom and water inside your home.
  4. Remove the TPR valve and discharge tube by unscrewing with a wrench.
  5. Replace with a new TPR valve and discharge tube.

How much does it cost to replace a T&P valve on a water heater?

If your replacement T&P Valve is not covered under warranty, you can expect to spend anywhere from about $20.00 to $75.00, depending on whether your water heater is residential (typically cheaper) or commercial (typically more expensive).

How long does it take to replace a water pressure valve?

Replacing a water pressure regulator takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on your plumbing experience and the complexity of the installation.

How do I know if I need a new pressure relief valve?

Replace pressure relief valves when you observe visible damage or wear, as these can compromise the valve's function. Frequent leaks indicate seal failure or improper closure, affecting pressure maintenance. Inconsistent or incorrect pressure release suggests internal wear or calibration issues.

What is the difference between a pressure relief valve and a pressure relief valve?

PRV: PRVs open in a controlled manner to regulate pressure, allowing for gradual pressure reduction to maintain system stability. PSV: PSVs open swiftly and completely when the predetermined set pressure is surpassed, offering rapid depressurization to prevent catastrophic failures.

How to tell if a pressure relief valve is bad?

Hammering or Vibrating Noises. Repetitive knocking or consistent humming noises that seem to come from the walls when you run different fixtures are often caused by a failed PRV.

Do you have to drain a water heater to replace a T&P valve?

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Heater and Drain the Tank

First, switch off the power supply to the water heater. For electric heaters, you can turn it off at the breaker box. For gas heaters, turn the thermostat to the “pilot” setting.

What happens if there is no pressure relief valve?

If the pressure relief value does not open when the water heater has overheated, the tank could spring a leak or explode.

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